Does university prestige matter in the Accouting industry?
I was recently accepted through Early Action to Western Washington University (WWU), an accredited university in my state with a 93% acceptance rate. I decided not to apply to the University of Washington (UW) because I knew I lacked the extracurricular activities and how hard it was to get accepted to their business school. I've heard the "if you don't try you won't know" speech from many people, but I didn't have the motivation to apply to UW. At one point, I even considered taking a gap year, but knowing myself I would get too comfortable and push back the opportunity of gaining hands-on experience during that time.
I gained interest in accounting by taking a small business accounting class at the community college. Not knowing what career path I wanted to go down, I found out that accounting had some job security. I'm also a part of the Running Start program, which means I'll have enough credits to earn my associate degree by the time I start at WWU. The classes I'm taking right now, and in the future, are business-related classes like accounting and economics. I recently got my first job, which is a big step for me, but it also means that finding an internship right now doesn't feel realistic. My ultimate goal is to become a CPA. I'm open to working in either public accounting or industry, though I've heard that starting with public accounting can lead to more lucrative career opportunities down the line if you gain the right experience.
I've researched if Big4 representatives come down to WWU, and they do, but the number of recruitments at WWU is very low. Mid-tier firms, like Moss Adams, recruit a bigger number.
I guess the advice I'm looking for is from people who were in the same position as me. What did you do during your time in college? Am I ruining my chances of getting into the Big 4? A lot of worries have been forming in my head about the future, but I try to remind myself that I should be taking it one step at a time.
Any advice is greatly appreciated. #Fall24
1 answer
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
**Here's some advice for Alyanna:**
**1. Focus on Your Strengths and Opportunities:**
* **Leverage Your Early Start:** Your early start and focus on business-related courses are significant advantages. This will give you a solid foundation and potentially a faster path to a degree.
* **Build Strong Relationships:** Network with professors, advisors, and industry professionals. These relationships can be invaluable for internships, job opportunities, and mentorship.
* **Prioritize Academic Excellence:** Maintain a strong GPA and focus on understanding the core accounting concepts. A solid academic record will increase your chances of securing internships and jobs.
**2. Explore Internship Opportunities:**
* **Local and Regional Firms:** Don't underestimate the value of internships at local and regional firms. These can provide hands-on experience and valuable connections.
* **Online Internships:** Consider online internships to gain exposure to different industries and work environments.
* **Campus Career Services:** Utilize your university's career services to find internship opportunities, attend workshops, and practice interviewing skills.
**3. Develop Soft Skills:**
* **Communication Skills:** Strong communication skills are essential in accounting. Practice clear and concise writing and speaking.
* **Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:** Develop your ability to analyze complex problems and find solutions.
* **Teamwork:** Learn to collaborate effectively with others, as many accounting roles involve working in teams.
**4. Stay Informed and Adapt:**
* **Industry Trends:** Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the accounting industry.
* **Certifications:** Consider pursuing certifications like the CPA to enhance your career prospects.
* **Be Flexible:** The accounting industry is constantly evolving. Be open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt to change.
**5. Don't Underestimate the Power of Networking:**
* **Attend Industry Events:** Participate in conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with professionals.
* **Leverage Social Media:** Use LinkedIn to build professional relationships and stay informed about industry news.
* **Alumni Networks:** Connect with alumni from your university who work in accounting to gain insights and advice.
**Remember, while prestige can be a factor, it's not the only determinant of success. Your hard work, dedication, and ability to build strong relationships will play a crucial role in your career.**
By focusing on these areas, Alyanna can position herself for a successful career in accounting, even without attending a prestigious university.
God Bless!
JC.